As the story goes, Monica Voluptuous Lipstick was inspired by the brand's muse, Italian actress/model Monica Bellucci, and each of the nine shades is intended to embody her essence, from "carnal reds to sensual nudes." Now that's flattering, and there's no question that Bellucci is simply stunning to look at, whether she's wearing lipstick or not.

Marketing spin aside, we do appreciate this lipstick's opaque pigmentation, balanced with a hint of shine (not overly slick or wet looking). Although this collection is substantially smaller than D&G's other lipstick lines, it still offers enough variety that most people should be able to find a "Monica-esque" color that suits them.

The moderately moisturizing finish may cause the color to feather into lip lines if you're prone to that, but otherwise it wears reasonably well (a few hours, give or take, depending on the shade and how much eating and drinking you are doing).

We do have to point out that this lipstick is fragranced, which means it poses a slight risk of irritation. That isn't a total deal breaker, but just know that there are plenty of beautiful lipsticks out there without this risk. Want proof? Check out our list of Best Lipsticks!

Ahh ok. Now I know I wasn't crazy for comparing the Monica line of lipsticks to Maybelline (or really, any drugstore lipstick). I bought three from Sephora, sight unseen, and when I used them I couldn't figure out what the fuss was about. Definitely not worth the inflated price tag; I find Revlon lipsticks to be better. Meh. (On the other hand, and to be fair, the eyeshadow quad I bought from D&G was amazing, very pigmented, and very easy to apply.) Maybe their regular line of lippies is better?

Weaknesses: Unjustifiably expensive in many cases; several mediocre products, including eyeliner, mascara, and foundation; nearly all of the lip products contain potentially irritating fragrance; a few old-school pencils that require inconvenient manual sharpening.

Italian brand Dolce & Gabbana is renowned for luxuriously crafted fashions, innovative designs, fragrances, and rich fabrics. The fashion brand’s foray into cosmetics follows suit, with opulent packaging adorned with golden accents and couture-like details. If that’s not enough to lure you in, D&G’s stunning celebrity spokeswomen will. With gorgeous muses like Scarlett Johansson and Monica Belluci headlining campaigns for their makeup collections, it’s hard not to get caught up in the seductive poses and the promise of prestige.

Just like their clothing line, D&G’s makeup products come with a designer price tag. That’s not to say they don’t have some great products—they absolutely do—but most of what you’re paying for is the upscale brand name, lavish packaging, and celebrity endorsements.

Most of D&G’s self-proclaimed “advanced” formulas tend to be quite basic in terms of any added benefit for your skin, though perhaps that will change now that the brand is owned by Shiseido.

Whether you find this brand’s prices acceptable or deplorable, D&G’s makeup line has its share of high points, texture being one of them. D&G’s powder makeup products offer a luxurious silky feel, velvety-smooth wear, and seamless application. There are several other standout products you may want to consider splurging on, too, including an impressive mascara, blush, foundation, liquid concealer, eyebrow pencil, and cream eyeshadow (see the individual reviews for details).

Of course, as with many brands, there are also instances where the products fall short in terms of performance, ingredients, and design. For those products, the high price point might seem unjustified and, well, it is! Nonetheless, D&G offers enough appealing makeup options to warrant a perusal. Just avoid the disappointments so you can be sure you’re spending your beauty dollars wisely.

Although not widely distributed in the United States, D&G makeup has a presence at some department stores in major cities, as well as at select Sephora locations around the world and online at Sephora.com.

The Beautypedia and Paula’s Choice Research teams have one mission: To help you find the best products for your skin, whether they’re from Paula’s Choice or another brand. By combining efforts, we’re able to share scientific research and remain committed to the highest standards based on our decades of experience objectively reviewing thousands upon thousands of skincare and makeup formularies in all price ranges.

Beautypedia cuts through the hype to bring you product insights and recommendations you won’t find anywhere else!

Weaknesses: Unjustifiably expensive in many cases; several mediocre products, including eyeliner, mascara, and foundation; nearly all of the lip products contain potentially irritating fragrance; a few old-school pencils that require inconvenient manual sharpening.

Italian brand Dolce & Gabbana is renowned for luxuriously crafted fashions, innovative designs, fragrances, and rich fabrics. The fashion brand’s foray into cosmetics follows suit, with opulent packaging adorned with golden accents and couture-like details. If that’s not enough to lure you in, D&G’s stunning celebrity spokeswomen will. With gorgeous muses like Scarlett Johansson and Monica Belluci headlining campaigns for their makeup collections, it’s hard not to get caught up in the seductive poses and the promise of prestige.

Just like their clothing line, D&G’s makeup products come with a designer price tag. That’s not to say they don’t have some great products—they absolutely do—but most of what you’re paying for is the upscale brand name, lavish packaging, and celebrity endorsements.

Most of D&G’s self-proclaimed “advanced” formulas tend to be quite basic in terms of any added benefit for your skin, though perhaps that will change now that the brand is owned by Shiseido.

Whether you find this brand’s prices acceptable or deplorable, D&G’s makeup line has its share of high points, texture being one of them. D&G’s powder makeup products offer a luxurious silky feel, velvety-smooth wear, and seamless application. There are several other standout products you may want to consider splurging on, too, including an impressive mascara, blush, foundation, liquid concealer, eyebrow pencil, and cream eyeshadow (see the individual reviews for details).

Of course, as with many brands, there are also instances where the products fall short in terms of performance, ingredients, and design. For those products, the high price point might seem unjustified and, well, it is! Nonetheless, D&G offers enough appealing makeup options to warrant a perusal. Just avoid the disappointments so you can be sure you’re spending your beauty dollars wisely.

Although not widely distributed in the United States, D&G makeup has a presence at some department stores in major cities, as well as at select Sephora locations around the world and online at Sephora.com.

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